New ZT Announced at Blade Show 2019

New ZT Announced at Blade Show 2019

In many ways, ZT’s new 0223 caught attendees off guard. Fans always anticipate big surprises, but few predicted what was in store this year. Nevertheless, the new folder made an impact.

So, what’s the story with this knife? The Tim Galyean design departs from recent ZT aesthetics, delivering a combination of old and new. It was inspired by a classic WWII-issue combat knife, harkening back to tough qualities that military knives became known for.

ZT 0223

Wrap-around G-10 scales give the knife a rugged look and feel. Its aggressive clip-point blade adds to this, offering an acute tip for piercing, as well as 3.5 inches of belly for effective slicing. Users can control their cuts with heavy jimping on the top of the blade. This jimping resembles the original fixed blade, which featured an actual saw at the top of the knife.

The blade also includes a fuller cutout, black-DLC coating, and five small holes in the ricasso. That last addition generated a lot of conversation among fans. ZT and Galyean included the holes to boost the aesthetics, as well as offer slight weight reduction. A lighter blade means faster opening with ZT’s modern KVT ball-bearing technology.

KnifeCenter spent some time with Jim MacNair, who explained all the 0223 details.

All of this is accomplished while still keeping the blade strength and integrity that ZT is known for – tested by our expert R&D and quality control departments – and backed by a Limited Lifetime Warranty.

Earlier this year, ZT’s sister brand, Kershaw Knives, also came out with a World War II-inspired model: the XCOM. The 0223 continues this theme at the premium level.

Fans will get their hands on the 0223 early third quarter of this year. It’s already up for pre-order at many authorized retailers. Reserve yours today!